Cleveland, Ohio doom rockers Venomin James have announced the addition of vocalist Mike Martini (Unified Culture, Mudfoot) and the release of a new single "Sailor’s Grave" through Auburn Records. Martini replaces vocalist Jim Meador.

"‘Sailor’s Grave’ marks the beginning of the second phase of Venomin James," says guitarist and founding member Joe Fortunato. "This is the first time Eric’s (Matthews) drumming has appeared on one of our recordings, and our first collaboration with new vocalist Mike Martini. I think people are going to be pleasantly surprised by the direction we’re going.

"This time around, we’re going to be releasing a few singles instead of waiting to make an album – especially since we’re amped for our fans to check out the new songs. There’s no shortage of crushing riffs being thrown around at rehearsals these days, so expect more tunes very, very soon."

The band parted ways with Meador last December, citing a change in vocal direction and Meador’s availability as the reasons. In a statement issued at the time, Fortunato said the following:

"We felt like a new direction was needed. There is no ill-will towards Jim, he’s a natural talent and a genuinely good guy. It’s not an easy thing to make this big of a change after 6 years, but we feel like this is the right thing for Venomin James at this point in time. This decision wasn’t taken lightly."

Meador plans to continue making music, and will be seeking or forming a new project in the near future.